Materials

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Step 1

creating a tiled rug effect

tile rug effect planned for center of room

Pick Tiles

For the walls, we will use a machine-made white gloss subway tile, accented with green glass and topped with black chair rail. For the floor, to achieve a more vintage look, we'll use a traditional hex that was used during that era.

For the floor, to help accent the wall and shower tile, a porcelain based white pinwheel field (Image 1), with an inlay of black and white with mesh mounting will be used, creating a tile rug effect in the center of the room (Image 2). It will be bordered with a black cove gloss base.

Step 2

make reference line with a laser level

Measure and Dry Fit the Inlay

The tub is the vocal point of the room, so take measurements off the tub to make sure the inlay is square with the tub. Also, mark off the area where the cabinets will sit, and then dry fit the inlay to make sure it is centered in the visible part of the floor.

Make a reference line and then use a laser level so you can see the mark when you put down the thinset.

Step 3

begin reference line over collar flange

angle grinder gives circular cut on tile

Cut Tiles

Start the first tile over the collar flange for the toilet, so begin your reference line and mark off 12" increments -- that is how big the tile sheets are (Image 1).

Set down two sheets of tile on the mark and transfer the cut-out for the collar flange.

Use an angle grinder because it is the easiest way to get a circular cut on the tile (Image 2).

Step 4

Spread Thinset and Set the Tiles

Once you are ready to set the tile, spread thinset with a 3/16" V-notched trowel, using the notched edge of the trowel to make furrows in the mortar bed.